Unrest from the Kurds in Syria is continuing to forment against the Assad regime, driving cracks into its shaking rule on power. Protests and riots have become more and more frequent in recent months.

Violent clashes between Syrian Kurds and police have erupted in the northern town of Ein al-Arab, according to a human rights organisation.

The Arab Organisation for Human Rights in Syria said rioting broke out after Kurds were prevented from showing their support for a banned separatist group.

Cars were damaged and stones thrown at police who responded by firing tear gas and making a number of arrests.

The Kurds are supporters of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

A statement from the rights group condemned the violence of both sides, stressed the importance of national unity and urged self-restraint.

There was no response from the Syrian government, which rarely comments on security issues.

Kirk wrote about the Kurds just a few days ago, so his post is worth reading. Josh Landis at Syria Comment is also posting a bunch of articles on the Kurds, here and here, which in all will probably take you half an hour.